No. Back when Benedict was finally elected there was speculation that a Cardinal from Africa might be elected. It was strongly suggested then that the pope to follow Benedict would most likely be from Africa.
Yes, but that's only because those who believe in the prophecy of "saints" were following the announcement of Saint Malachi (sp?) several hundred years ago who said that there would be "x" number of more popes and then a "black" pope.
Pope Benedict is the xth pope (I can't remember the number) and this next pope will be the xth + 1 or the "black" one.
However, what does "black pope" mean? Is it skin tone or character of heart?
And that's only a question for those who believe in that sort of prediction to begin with. But I think that's why the speculation was going around - but what do I know?